Jerry Delbert Heald

In Loving Memory of Jerry Delbert Heald

April 20, 1937 - April 9, 2023

With heavy hearts, we have to announce the passing of Jerry Delbert Heald on April 9, 2023. His departure marks the end of a life lived with love, passion, and an unwavering spirit. Jerry's journey, touched the hearts of all his cherished family and friends who knew him.

Jerry’s journey began on April 20, 1937, in Chickasha, Oklahoma.  Jerry spent his early years growing up on a dairy farm.  When he was only 8 years old, they migrated to California where he later graduated from Fresno High School in 1955.  Jerry had a desire to serve his country which led him to join the army in 1957 where he was stationed in Del Paso, TX.  After serving his full term, he was honorably discharged in 1960.  It was during this experience in the Army that he realized the value of a higher education.

Prior to his deployment for the Army Jerry was fortunate to meet his future bride and lifetime partner, Marilyn Bissell who also lived in Fresno.  She quickly became the love of his life.  She waited patiently as he served his time in the Army, but in 1960, they solidified their faith in each other in holy matrimony as husband and wife.  Jerry's dedication to Marilyn was unwavering, spanning over six decades of love, support, and shared adventures.

Without wasting anytime, Jerry pursued his desire for knowledge for higher education and earned his Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Fresno State University.  His degree quickly opened the pathway to start his career in Pleasanton California working for General Electric Nuclear Energy Company.  However, during this time Jerry's remarkable intellect and passion for learning were further exemplified as he pursued a Master's Degree in Mechanical Engineering at Santa Clara University. Throughout his career, Jerry made significant contributions, including inventing and patenting a machine that revolutionized the detection of cracks in nuclear power plant pipes. His ingenuity and dedication to his craft were admired by his colleagues.  In 1969, Jerry's professional journey led him to the GE plant in San Jose, where he purchased their first family home in South San Jose.

As his career flourished, Jerry's family grew. He and Marilyn welcomed their 2 children, Lori Ann and Steve, into the world, creating a nurturing and loving home for the next 20 years. Jerry's dedication to his family was evident in his unwavering support, love, and encouragement. 

Jerry's desire for adventure extended beyond his career, as he pursued his lifelong dream of flying. With determination and courage, he earned his private pilot's license and soared through the skies, experiencing the freedom and beauty of the world from above.  It was also there that Jerry's love for golf took root, a passion that would bring him immeasurable joy in many years to come.

Upon Jerry’s retirement in 1997, Jerry and Marilyn sought a peaceful and fulfilling life journey outside the Bay Area.  With the advice of Jerry’s cousin, Buddy Stansbury, they settled in Lake Wildwood, where Jerry's dream of living on a golf course became a reality. Golf became a cherished pastime, providing him with camaraderie, joy, and a sense of community. Alongside Marilyn, Jerry embarked on numerous travel adventures, exploring the wonders of Europe, China, Australia, and Dubai. These journeys created treasured memories and enriched their lives.

Unfortunately, in recent years, Jerry faced the challenges of dementia (Alzheimer's) with unwavering strength and grace. Throughout this difficult journey, his loving spirit remained intact, touching the lives of those around him.

Jerry will always be remembered for his infectious happiness, his genuine care for others, and his unwavering love for his family. He leaves behind his beloved wife of 62 years, Marilyn, his children Lori Ann (Jim) and Steve (Lavena), five grandchildren - Sierra Durham, Daytona Danilov, Jordan Barkley, Marissa Heald and Kolby Juarez - and two great-granddaughters, Zoey Durham and Preacher Truth Barkley. His memory will forever live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the Friends of Hospice of Grass Valley and the compassionate staff at Eskaton's memory care unit for their exceptional care and support.

In honor of Jerry's memory, donations can be made to the Alzheimer's Foundation or Hospice of the Foothills in Grass Valley, helping others facing similar challenges.

A celebration of Jerry's remarkable life will be held on August 4th at 2:00PM at the Lake Wildwood Community Center. We gather to honor his legacy, to share cherished memories, and to find solace in the love that will forever bind us.

Jerry will be deeply missed, but his spirit and impact on our lives will continue to inspire us. May he rest in eternal peace.